Port Guide | Brazil | Dive Deep

Ubatuba

Samantha Cruz | Editor

Published on 2025-01-23

Congratulations, you've officially docked in Ubatuba-Brazil's charmingly named coastal haven that's as fun to pronounce as it is to explore. Sure, "Ubatuba" sounds like the punchline to a tropical joke, but rest assured, this laid-back gem takes beach lounging, surfing, and lush forest adventures very seriously. Nestled snugly between emerald mountains and sapphire waves, Ubatuba was once the stomping ground of Tupinamba indigenous tribes-yes, the same folks who famously captured and ate Hans Staden, a grumpy German adventurer, nearly five centuries ago (don't worry, they're far friendlier today). You've got somewhere between two and five blissful days here, ample enough time to embarrass yourself trying to catch a wave at Praia Vermelha, hike the lush trails to hidden waterfalls, or sample ridiculously fresh seafood stew (moqueca caicara) at a seaside shack. Swap the generic cruise itinerary cliches for barefoot wanderings, a caipirinha-fueled sunset, and perhaps some friendly debate about whether you've just found the best-hidden spot in all of Brazil. Welcome to Ubatuba: spend wisely, tan irresponsibly, and remember to rinse off the sand before heading back on board.